When a loved one goes into the hospital
suddenly,or a person has to be out of town for
a few days, or one’s old college buddy calls to
say that he and his kids will be in town for the
weekend, “Concierge Saratoga is a solution,”
said owner Janet Ostrov.
Ostrov described herself as an “organized dilettante”
and creative problem solver who loves
helping people. Recently retired from working
in student services and project management at
Empire State College, she decided “what better
way to serve the community I love while doing
something different every day. This business is
a perfect fit for me.”
She has lived in Saratoga Springs since moving
here in 1990 with her husband, Rich, to raise
their sons near his family. Prior to that, she
worked in Washington, D.C. and abroad, and
has traveled widely.
In her new business, “we can walk the dog, get your car inspected, wait for the repairman, pick up prescriptions and dry cleaning, get that proposal copied and faxed, put together a ‘Welcome to Saratoga’ basket, bring in someone to clean your house, make hotel and dinner reservations–or shop for wine and groceries so you can serve dinner at home,” she said. “We are your back-up plan,” said Ostrov.
“This business is all about being there for my clients when they need a little extra help, then providing exceptional customer service every time.”
Clients pay an hourly fee for personal assistant services, with a one-hour minimum; then pay is based on 20-minute increments. The client receives an invoice that includes time and reimbursement amount for any purchases made on their behalf. She said there are no hidden charges or fees, and payment is by check, cash, Visa or MasterCard.
As a concierge business, Ostrov works closely with experienced professionals who can help clients downsize and get settled in a new home; organize a room or an office; clean out the basement or attic and set up a yard sale; stage a home for sale; do “handyman” projects; cater a small dinner party–and more.
“There is no additional charge for services arranged for a client with one of our qualified vendors,” she said. The vendors provide an estimate based on the job and then bills the client directly, she added.
Concierge Saratoga gift certificate for personal assistant services are available. More information can be found at www.conciergesaratoga.com or by calling Ostrov at 265-5643. Concierge Saratoga can be found on Facebook.
Photo Courtesy Janet Ostrov